The Pinkberry frozen yogurt chain, which accelerated franchise expansion with the opening of 25 units so far this year, has plans to debut another 11 locations over the next two months.
In addition, after introducing delivery and catering services to certain markets in 2010, the Los Angeles-based chain said it will offer takeout containers for guests to bring its product home in larger quantities.
The 98-unit chain is about 80-percent franchised and, while no new corporate units have been announced for 2010, company growth will continue, said Ron Graves, Pinkberry’s chief executive.
This year’s new openings through October will bring the Pinkberry brand to 17 new markets, both domestic and international, Graves said.
New domestic markets so far this year include Atlanta; Boston; Charlotte, N.C.; Denver; New Orleans; Orlando, Fla.; Honolulu and Maui; and Sacramento and San Jose, Calif. Outlets are scheduled to open this fall in Connecticut, Nashville, Tenn., and Washington, D.C.
Internationally, Pinkberry opened units in Dubai, Bahrain and Mexico City. Later this fall, the company will debut its inaugural Qatar location.
Graves also said additional franchised units — beyond those already cited — likely will be added before the year ends.
“Our growth plan has been very strategic,” he said. “We have taken the time to build the right infrastructure to support expansion and have partnered with strong area developers who possess relevant expertise, local area knowledge, capital to develop a territory and, most importantly, like-minded values and a passion for Pinkberry.
“This foundation has enabled our expansion in 2010 in a way that supports rapid growth but does not let us compromise on the quality of our one-of-a-kind experience,” he said.
Offering take-home containers also allows Pinkberry to further expand its reach. “It satisfied a huge demand for Pinkberry wherever people want it,” Graves said.
The containers hold about 25 ounces of frozen yogurt, which the company said is the equivalent of five small Pinkberry servings. The yogurt is “swirled to order” in the store with prices ranging from $9.95 to $10.95. Toppings can also be purchased to go in mini containers for $1.95 per topping.
Contact Lisa Jennings at [email protected].